[.
]Action/Kinetics:
Peak serum levels: PO, 9-39 mcg/mL after 1 hr. t1/2, PO: 50-80 min. Absorption delayed in children. The HCl monohydrate does not require conversion in the stomach before absorption. Ninety percent of drug excreted unchanged in urine within 8 hr.
Uses:
(1) Respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and group A ß-hemolytic streptococci. (2) Otitis media due to S. pneumoniae, Hemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis (use monohydrate only), staphylococci, streptococci, and N. catarrhalis. (3) GU infections (including acute prostatitis) due to Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis or Klebsiella species. (4) Bone infections caused by P. mirabilis or staphylococci. (5) Skin and skin structure infections due to staphylococci and streptococci.
Special Concerns:
Safety and effectiveness of the HCl monohydrate have not been determined in children.
Additional Side Effects:
Nephrotoxicity, cholestatic jaundice.
How Supplied:
Cephalexin hydrochloride monohydrate: Tablet: 500 mg. Cephalexin monohydrate: Capsule: 250 mg, 500 mg; Powder for Reconstitution: 125 mg/5 mL, 250 mg/5 mL; Tablet: 250 mg, 500 mg
Dosage
•Capsules, Oral Suspension, Tablets
General infections.
Adults, usual: 250 mg q 6 hr up to 4 g/day. Pediatric: Monohydrate 25-50 mg/kg/day in four equally divided doses.
Infections of skin and skin structures, streptococcal pharyngitis, uncomplicated cystitis, over 15 years.
Adults: 500 mg q 12 hr. Large doses may be needed for severe infections or for less susceptible organisms. For streptococcal pharyngitis in children over 1 year and for skin and skin structure infections, the total daily dose should be divided and given q 12 hr. In severe infections, the dose should be doubled.
Otitis media.
Pediatric: 75-100 mg/kg/day in four divided doses.
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